TlEthiopian Airlines, the leading carrier in Africa has stated that it is committed to delivering exceptional services to its valued passengers.
This is just as the airline celebrates its 80th anniversary today at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport(M”
Speaking at the Temporary Departure Terminal of MMIA, Lagos,the General Manager
Ethiopian Airlines, Nigeria, Mrs. Firihiewot Mekonnen, said, “Ehiopian Airlines remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, and sustainability, and delivering exceptional experiences to our valued passengers.”
Recall that Ethiopian Airlines popularly known as ET was established on April 8, 1946, with a single flight from Addis Ababa to Cairo, the Egyptian capital.
Mekonnen explained that though the beginning was humble, it was driven by unwavering commitment, vision, and dedication.
She further explained that that pioneering flight marked the dawn of a new era for African aviation under the proud name Ethiopian Air Lines, three simple words that would grow to carry extraordinary meaning.
“Today, that name stands tall as a global aviation leader, connecting Africa to the world and beyond. The five C-47 aircraft that once symbolised our beginnings have grown into a fleet of more than 140 ultra-modern aircraft and still expanding. What began with a single destination, Cairo, has flourished into a vast network of 144 destinations worldwide, ” she said.
This incredible journey, Mekonnen, noted has been made possible by the dedication and hard work of the airline’s management and entire staff of Ethiopian airlines, the enduring trust of passengers, and the invaluable support of partners.
This achievement, she said belongs to everyone as shared success.
She stated that as the airline celebrate its legacy today, it should also embrace this moment as a renewed commitment to an even brighter future.
On the airlines flight to Lagos, the General Manager, Ethiopian Airlines, posited that Lagos has been an important part of the carrier’s story since 1960, and that the airline is especially delighted and truly grateful to celebrate its 80th anniversary in this vibrant and beautiful city.
She said Ethiopian Airlines has been proudly flying to Nigeria since 1960 marking 65 years of continuous service having begun operations just a month after Nigeria’s independence.
She added that since then, through every season, growth and challenge, change and progress Ethiopian Airlines has never stopped flying.
According to her that enduring connection is a testament to the strength of its partnership and the deep bond Ethiopian Airlines share with the people of Nigeria.
In her words, “Nigeria is not just a destination in our network it is a valued partner in our journey, a place rich in culture, energy, and opportunity, and a community that has embraced us for decades.”
“We deeply appreciate the trust and loyalty we have received here, and we look forward to strengthening these ties even further in the years ahead,” she stressed.
Speaking further, Mekonnen, said, “Thank you for being part of this special celebration. Thank you for your continued support, your partnership, and the trust you place in us.”
She said that today Ethiopian Airlines Group has become an entire aviation ecosystem encompassing passenger and cargo services, Ground Services, MRO, Ethiopian Airports, Aviation University, In-flight Catering, and the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel.
“Today, Ethiopian Airlines is more than just an airline it is a proud symbol of resilience, ambition, and success. As we like to say, we are 80 years young because our passion, our drive, and our commitment to excellence remain as strong and vibrant as they were on the day of our very first flight. While we celebrate how far we have come, we are even more inspired by how far we will go.
“As we mark this 80-year milestone, we also look ahead with renewed optimism and bold ambition. The aviation industry continues to evolve, and Ethiopian,” she said.
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